States and Cities across the U.S. Declare October 2025 as Hindu Heritage Month

State Senator Ram Villivalam’s historic leadership in successfully passing legislation in the Illinois Senate declaring October 2021 as Hindu Heritage Month in Illinois. PHOTO: Courtesy Sen. Villivalam’s office

CHICAGO, IL — November 2, 2025:October is Hindu Heritage Month in the USA, a time to recognize and celebrate the culture, history, and contributions of Hindu Americans. The month is also celebrated globally and often coincides with major Hindu festivals such as Navaratri, Dussehra, and Diwali. Throughout the United States, numerous states and cities have officially proclaimed October as Hindu Heritage Month, with celebrations ranging from cultural events, youth workshops, and interfaith gatherings to official proclamations and resolutions issued by governors, mayors, and state legislators.

This year, proclamations were issued in Illinois, Michigan, Ohio, Pennsylvania, North Carolina, Georgia, and several other states, as well as in cities like Skokie, IL and Harrisburg, PA, reflecting a growing national recognition of Hindu Americans’ impact on civic and cultural life.

Illinois Leadership in Recognition:Illinois has been at the forefront of this recognition. State Senator Ram Villivalam (D–Chicago), the first Hindu to serve in the Illinois State Legislature, successfully passed legislation in the Illinois Senate declaring October 2021 as Hindu Heritage Month in Illinois.

“Hindus have furthered our state’s cultural diversity and economic prosperity,” said Senator Villivalam. “As the senator of one of the most diverse districts in the state, I am proud to be a co-sponsor of legislation to honor the contributions of Hindu communities across Illinois.”

His leadership set a precedent that has since inspired other states across the nation to follow suit, helping bring Hindu Heritage Month to the national stage.

A Celebration of Heritage, Faith, and Community:Hindu Heritage Month provides an annual platform to educate, celebrate, and unite communities through the exploration of Hindu traditions, philosophy, and values. Hinduism — the world’s third-largest religion, practiced by more than 6 million people in the United States, including over 250,000 in Illinois — is unique for its pluralistic approach, with no single founder, text, or doctrine. Instead, it embraces a wide variety of beliefs, customs, and practices that have flourished for thousands of years.

Throughout October, communities nationwide hosted events highlighting Indian classical dance, yoga and meditation workshops, interfaith dialogues, youth cultural programs, and Diwali and Navaratri celebrations, welcoming people of all backgrounds to participate and learn.

“Hindu Heritage Month strengthens civic understanding and promotes inclusion,” stated the largest South Asian news network in the United States. From small-town temples to major metropolitan centers, Hindu Americans have made lasting contributions to medicine, education, business, technology, and the arts. These official proclamations are far more than symbolic—they represent a meaningful acknowledgment of shared values and the diverse threads that together strengthen the American fabric

Advocacy and coordination for Hindu Heritage Month have been championed by leading national organizations such as the Hindu American Foundation (HAF) and the Vishwa Hindu Parishad of America (VHPA), which have worked collaboratively with state and local governments to foster awareness, inclusion, and mutual respect.

Why October Matters:The timing of Hindu Heritage Month aligns with several major Hindu festivals, including Navaratri, Dussehra, and Diwali, providing a natural moment of celebration for families, temples, and community centers across the country. Events during the month include:Classical and folk performances, traditional dance, and music showcases Civic recognitions and educational programs in schools and universities Interfaith panels and community dialogues Yoga, meditation, and health awareness workshops, Charitable drives and Diwali “Festival of Lights” celebrations open to all

A Growing National Movement:What began as a local recognition has evolved into a nationwide celebration of identity, faith, and service. With official proclamations now issued in multiple states — including Ohio, Michigan, Pennsylvania, North Carolina, Georgia, and Illinois — Hindu Heritage Month has become a unifying observance for Hindu Americans and an educational bridge for the broader public.

In 2025, Governor Josh Shapiro of Pennsylvania, Governor Mike DeWine of Ohio, and Governor Roy Cooper of North Carolina joined other state leaders in issuing proclamations recognizing the month’s cultural significance and acknowledging the contributions of the Hindu community to American society.